Bhubaneswar: The Department of Electronics and Information Technology has devised a major plan to transform Odisha into a data center hub. The goal is to attract ₹10,000 crore in investments in data centers by 2036. Alongside this, the government aims to create over 50,000 employment opportunities in the tech sector. This information was shared during a workshop on Odisha’s IT/ITES Roadmap organized by the IT department.
IT Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling stated that through the AI and IT policies, the government intends to generate massive employment opportunities. Odisha is the first state in India to introduce an AI policy, which is expected to boost the growth of AI startups significantly.
Rs10,000 Crore Investment Target by 2036
IT Parks in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack
According to the Odisha Digital Economy Mission, the government has set a target to export over ₹7,000 crore worth of electronics and create more than 2 lakh jobs. Emphasis is being placed on setting up outsourced semiconductor assembly, testing, marking, and packaging (OSAT/ATMP) units.
Efforts are also underway to strengthen the digital foundation outside Bhubaneswar through initiatives like the Chips-to-Startup program for educational institutions.
Global GICC Hub in Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri Corridor
It was revealed during the workshop that eight tech towers will be developed across the state. Required land acquisition is ongoing to establish IT parks between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. In collaboration with Singapore, tenders have been floated for the establishment of a cable landing station and a data center in Puri.
As per Odisha’s Vision 2036 and 2047, a world-class Global IT & Communication Cluster (GICC) will be developed in the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri corridor. This will include the expansion of startup incubation capacity as well as development in fintech and data centers.
Key Officials & Industry Participation
On this occasion, Principal Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev, Special Secretary Manas Ranjan Panda, and over 50 industry representatives participated. Discussions and proposals were made on promoting gaming startups, introducing a cybersecurity policy, and encouraging Odias running businesses outside Odisha to set up units within the state. These proposals will be considered for policy revisions, as assured by the Minister and key officials.